Greenheart Travel

Category: Teach in a Homestay

  • Teaching Tips Tuesday from Greenheart Travel

    Teaching Tips Tuesday from Greenheart Travel

    Heading to a Greenheart Travel Homestay Program in Spain, France, or South Korea? Here are 3 quick teaching tips to keep in mind as you begin tutoring!

    1.Use Teacher Talk

    What is teacher talk? Teacher talk is a technique that uses focused language when talking to your student. By using deliberate and precise language with your student, it helps to ensure that they are following along with you and are not lost in the “fluff.” What is meant by fluff? You can think of fluff like filler words that distract your student from the main point you are trying to make, here is an example:

    Today we will be reviewing articles. Articles are helpful but I also think they can be confusing depending on the person. Do you remember articles? We talked about them yesterday during our lesson, anyway, please take your workbook, open it and turn to page 37.

    Vs.

    We will be reviewing articles. Please open your book to page 37.

    Adding “fluff” is something that every teacher does from time to time, and it can be difficult to realize you are doing it, especially if you are feeling nervous. Our recommendation is to be very intentional with the words you say. If you’re starting to get too wordy, pause and check in with yourself. Take a deep breath, re-center, and remember that less is more.

    2.Ask Questions

    During your tutoring sessions you want to give your student as much time to talk and practice English as possible. A great way to keep your student talking is by asking questions, questions, and more questions! Keep in mind the 5 W’s (and 1 H).

    Who?

    What?

    When?

    Where?

    Why?

    How?

    Asking questions not only helps get your student talking, it can help you, as the teacher, better understand their areas of strength and improvement, here is an example:

    Teacher: What is your favorite color?

    Student: I like purple.

    Teacher: Why do you like purple?

    Student: It is nice.

    Teacher: Where do you see purple in this room?

    Student: There.

    Teacher: What is that?

    By asking additional questions about the student’s favorite color, the teacher has now broadened the scope of the lesson. It not only just about colors, but the objects in the room, what their names are.

    3.Consider Context and Keep it Relevant

    Consider these two sentences:

    Earlier today, I walked down Addison and got on the Brown Line heading towards Kimball to go to The Perfect Cup. I’m glad I took the L because it started pouring as soon as I got on!

    Vs.

    Earlier today, I walked down the street and got on a train heading north to go to a café. I’m glad I took the train because it started raining really hard as soon as I got on!

    While these sentences are technically conveying the same information, the first one uses a lot of Chicago specific words and phrases. Words that could easily confuse someone not from Chicago. When teaching we want to consider our student and the context they might have for certain words. A good rule of thumb for this is to keep it general and limit your use of region-specific language, colloquialisms, brand names, and idioms/figures of speech.

    Examples:

    Instead of Kleenex, say facial tissue

    Instead of Chapstick, say lip balm

    Instead of feeling “under the weather”, say feeling sick/ill

    Instead of “whatever floats your boat”, say “whatever makes you happy!”

    Looking for more advice? Head to our teaching tips page!

     

  • 6 Reasons Why Traveling Abroad is Important for Young People

    6 Reasons Why Traveling Abroad is Important for Young People

    In high school and college it is likely that you will receive some kind of encouragement to travel, study or work abroad. It may seem like you have a lot going on so you don’t seriously consider these opportunities or maybe you write them off since you plan on traveling later in life. I would encourage traveling at any age, but the earlier you can learn the lessons travel teaches the better.

    When you are young, you are still finding yourself and preparing for your school and career. The skills and experience you gain from traveling abroad can give you life-long personal benefits as well as a leg up in the professional world.

    In high school and college you have the luxury of having flexibility since you can study anywhere in the world and have relatively long study breaks. It is a prime time to take advantage of your freedom and youth.

    Top 6 reasons to travel abroad while you are young:

    1. You’ll Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

    As young people most of us have a pretty established comfort zone. At home with mom and dad, in a community that has known you for probably a good part of your life. You have your established, friends, activities, hangouts and possibly jobs. We become comfortable in these daily roles and the idea of breaking out them can be scary and uncomfortable.

    The problem is, you learn the most in uncomfortable, unfamiliar situations. In our daily routines, you know how to act and respond to people and your surroundings. Being in a new place, with different people, who hold different values and go about life differently (or not so differently you may find) strips all that familiarity away.

    It can be scary, but once you figure out that you can connect with people despite differences, and you can navigate foreign environments, you become a smarter, more competent individual. Embrace the discomfort. Search for it, because it is helping you grow.

    Danny Scott with Host Family resized

    Greenheart Travel participant, Danny Scott, with host family in Costa Rica.

    2. Traveling Builds Confidence

    As you conquer the obstacles of figuring out how to use public transit in a foreign country, or asking for simple things in a grocery store, you are building a confidence and ability to adapt in foreign situations. I remember moving to a country where I spoke little to none of the language.

    When I returned home, I moved across the country to a state where I had no family, friends or connections. The prospect of that move may have intimidated me before living abroad, but then I thought to myself, ‘Well, if I can do it abroad in a completely foreign system, I will be just fine in a place where I at least share the language.’

    You realize that you CAN do things, despite the obstacles and suddenly the obstacles seem less obstructive and more like welcomed challenges.

    TEFL-certification-in-Leon,-Nicaragua

    Greenheart Travel TEFL student taking in the city of Leon, Nicaragua.

    3. You Will Develop Cultural Sensitivity

    Being culturally sensitive is key in our globalizing world. It is not enough to say “people from X country are like this.” It is important to look for underlying values that may explain a certain behavior in order to practice cultural sensitivity. A good example is when I was in Spain (especially in the south), where they take a 2-3 hour siesta and lunch in the middle of their work day.

    Many people view this cultural norm as the people just being lazy when it really has a lot more to do with the fact that historically Spaniards value family face time. Eating together as a family is more important to them than maximizing work time by scarfing a sandwich down at their desks.

    Being aware of cultural values and norms is not only fascinating, but can help us understand international issues and conflicts, or even relate to the cultural norms of a foreign business partner. It is an important skill to be able to shift perspectives and see where someone else is coming from.

    Cultural sensitivity will help you with your communication on both business and personal levels.

    studying-abroad-in-spain

    Greenheart Travel high school student in Spain.

    4. You Can Adapt to Globalization

    Whether you like it or not, with the internet and social media, we are globalizing quickly. It is not unlikely that you would end up with a job that has you travel for business or take part in conference calls with international business partners. In our globalizing world it is important to be culturally sensitive and it can’t hurt to know a foreign language.

    In the business world, having lived abroad can give you a competitive edge. Use the confidence and cultural sensitivity that traveling helps you develop and help it make you successful.

    volunteer-in-thailand

    Get work experience teaching English or completing an internship in Thailand.

    5. Be Immersed in a Second (or Third) Language

    Before I lived abroad I never truly understood the beauty of becoming fluent or even proficient in another language. In the United States we don’t need to know another language, or many would argue that. Once you travel abroad you realize that especially in Europe, almost everyone you meet speaks at least two languages somewhat proficiently.

    We in the States have a bit of a disadvantage since geographically we cannot country-hop as easily as Europeans can. This is why traveling, especially for us, is even more important.  I would argue that in the globalizing world it really can only benefit you to speak another language. Not to mention, it opens up a whole new world of people you can now connect with and understand that you would never have gotten the chance to get to know had you never learned their language.

    Living abroad is really the best way to learn a new language since you are forced to challenge and practice your skills on a daily basis.

    explore-france

    Greenheart Travel students perfect their French language schools at our language camp in France.

    6. Infinite Opportunities to Network

    I have studied and worked abroad and made some incredibly valuable connections. If you are interested in working internationally or even just having a couch to stay on in a country that you love, never underestimate the value of networking wherever you go.

    One thing I have learned in my time abroad is that people are generally very friendly and love to talk about their home and culture. This is not always the case, but more than often it is. Making friendships abroad can make this big world seem a little smaller and help you feel more connected wherever you go.

    The best advice I can give is to meet as many people on your travels as you can. It will definitely make your time abroad more enjoyable since the locals know best! Plus you never know when these connections will come in handy in the future whether visiting each other for fun or otherwise.

    Do you agree or have you traveled abroad as a young person? Share your experience in the comments below!

  • Greenheart Travel Alumni Opportunities

    Greenheart Travel Alumni Opportunities

    Congratulations, you’re a Greenheart Travel alumni!  

    Your adventure doesn’t stop here! We can’t wait for you to continue your journey with Greenheart Travel. Now that you’re a part of our alumni family, you have many opportunities to continue your personal and professional development. 

    The Greenheart Club

    The Greenheart Club is our exclusive online community where civic innovators and volunteers can network, gain access to professional development tools, and measure their community impact. Customize your profile, share stories, receive badges and learn from others around the globe, all while logging your volunteer hours. You are required to have a Greenheart Club account to apply for the Odyssey Programs and Greenheart Grants.

    Apply for a Greenheart Global Impact Grant (GIG) or Teach-Pair-Share Grant

    A Greenheart Global Impact Grant (GIG) is a financial award of up to $1000 given to exemplary members of the Greenheart Club. It provides alumni with the opportunity to create, improve, or maintain a community-focused project abroad or at home. Find more information on the Greenheart Club. 

    Greenheart’s Teach-Pair-Share grant provides up to $1000 for Greenheart English Teachers to partner with a teacher from their host community on a project that benefits their students and school. For example, the grant can be used to fund a language-immersion event, launch an afterschool program, or build an educational garden. Apply here.

    Become a Greenheart Travel Ambassador

    The Greenheart Travel Ambassador role is a unique volunteer opportunity for alumni who want to share their international experience, encourage others to travel abroad on a cultural exchange program, and grow their personal network.

    By participating as a Greenheart Travel Ambassador, you will:

    • Earn internship-like experience customizable to your interests
    • Develop advanced marketing, mentoring, and leadership skills
    • Expand your personal and professional networks
    • Connect with other highly accomplished alumni
    • Make connections and work directly with Greenheart Travel staff
    • Gain access to professional development resources and special events

    What does a Greenheart Travel Ambassador do? 

    Well, that depends on you! Are you a writer? Get published on our blog! An education major? Present with us in schools! Into marketing? Contribute to our social media and recruiting efforts!

    These are just a few of the ways our Ambassadors are involved:

    • Mentor new Greenheart Travel participants
    • Host a Greenheart Travel meetup in your area
    • Give a stellar presentation and inspire your peers
    • Join us at a fair or conference to promote travel for a change

    We’re happy to answer your questions! Learn more or apply today by emailing travelalumni@greenheart.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

    Apply for a Greenheart Odyssey Scholarship Program

    At the heart of our mission is the Greenheart Odyssey, a series of five leadership programs providing full-ride scholarships (flights included!) to chosen alumni. All alumni can apply through their Greenheart Club portal following completion of their program abroad.

    Junior Greenheart Global Leader’s Conference (Under 18)

    Jr. Leaders spend five days in Chicago exploring global leadership. They engage in service, public speaking workshops, cultural exchange, and one-on-one engagement with innovative leaders.

    Greenheart Global Leader’s Conference (18+)

    Adult Global Leaders spend a week in Washington, D.C. learning how to be advocates for cultural exchange and community development. Business, social justice, and sustainability workshops culminate in a Department of State visit and panelist opportunity.

    Greenheart Global Alumni Council

    Six all-star alumni are chosen to be Greenheart board members for the year. Council members are empowered by the unique opportunity to come together in-person at the Purpose Summit in Berlin, Germany and in online spaces. They develop initiatives that have an international impact.

    Become a Local Coordinator in the USA

    Join our team of local coordinators throughout the USA, placing and supporting our high school exchange students and their host families. This is a part-time contract position that is open to alumni 26 years or older, with the opportunity for domestic and international travel to annual conferences. 

    Fill out an inquiry form here: https://greenheartexchange.org/partner/become-a-local-coordinator/apply/ 

    Host a High School Exchange Student in the USA

    Located in the United States? You and your family can open your home to a high school exchange student from another country. You can host a student anywhere from a few weeks to an entire academic year. Volunteer host families provide our young ambassadors a wide range of landscapes, climates, activities, and lifestyles. 

    Fill out an inquiry form here: https://greenheartexchange.org/host/host-an-exchange-student/apply/  

  • 8 Reasons to Teach in a Homestay in Europe in the Fall

    8 Reasons to Teach in a Homestay in Europe in the Fall

    Parlez-vous francais? ¿Tú hablas español? 

    Learning a foreign language is essential in today’s world. But learning a language is more than studying from a text book: it’s about immersing yourself in that language and experiencing true cultural exchange, and there is no better time to head abroad than in the Fall! Here are 8 reasons why you should apply for a Greenheart Travel Teach in a Homestay program.

    1.  No summer crowds

    Avoid the herds of tourists, enjoy shorter lines to museums and take advantage of off-season prices at restaurants while exploring in your free time. No lines at the Louvre!?

    2.  Beautiful Weather

    Save yourself from the potential of heatwaves when you arrive in September and October.

    3.  Cheaper Airfare

    Airfare can be more than double in the popular summer months. Sometimes you can score tickets to Europe in the fall for even as low as $500 round trip from the USA.

    4.  Wine Harvest

    Wine grape harvest season in Spain and France along with awesome harvesting festivals!

     5. Good Timing

    It is easier to take time off work in the fall after all of your co-workers have taken their summer vacations! Teach English in a Homestay’s flexible dates make it easy to squeeze in a month when it’s convenient for you. 

    6. Festivals

    Attend awesome beer, food and cultural festivals like Oktoberfest in Germany or the White Truffle Festival in Italy!

    7. Connect with the Locals

    During the summer, many Europeans go on vacation. Visiting in the fall gives you the opportunity to meet local people and truly immerse yourself in a new culture.

    8. Those Changing Leaves!

    Experience the beauty of the leaves changing while in a beautiful new landscape. What is more romantic than wandering in a park halfway across the world as the trees change colors?

    Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain in November
  • 7 Ways to Travel Abroad After You Graduate This Spring

    7 Ways to Travel Abroad After You Graduate This Spring

    Skip the anxiety-ridden job search after graduation. The rat race. The climbing of the corporate ladder. That cubicle lit with fluorescent light. All of those things will be waiting for you when you come back (if you still want them!).

    Instead, it’s time for an adventure. It’s time to take everything you know, and turn it upside down. It’s time for you to find your “people.” To do things you never imagined you could or would do. To stop just liking amazing Instagram photos of places around the globe and actually travel and see these places for yourself.

    Because, at what other point in your life are you going to be without a mortgage? Without a career in motion? Without a serious relationship, pets, marriage, kids? Without so much STUFF that you can’t leave behind?

    Because hesitation = regret. The time is NOW. The world is waiting with open arms.

    The best part of traveling after graduation? You’ll come back more YOU. More focused. More world-wise. More prepared to succeed in whichever path you choose. And that, is a beautiful thing.

    But how?

    Whether you’re graduating from college this spring or have decided to “graduate” from corporate life and move abroad, here are some ideas to get you started:

    Teach English in Thailand

    Our most popular program for a reason! With a commitment of only 3-4 months, this is a great way to explore and travel after graduation in a unique culture with beautiful destinations to explore. Our fall start dates are typically over 100 people each, so you’ll have lots of opportunities to make new travel friends to explore Asia with. If you’re looking for a short term way to see the world after graduation, this is your program! Check out our hashtag #greenhearttravel to see why this program is so popular!

    SUMMER PROGRAM TOO! Spend 6 weeks in Thailand this summer! In addition to our traditional semester contracts, we also offer several short-term summer positions with slightly different program details.  If you only have the summer off, this is a perfect way to get abroad for that time!

    The Basics:

    • Contract length: 6-week summer program or 1 semester (3-4 months) with the option to extend
    • Start dates: Monthly
      • Pro tip: our biggest start date of the year is always in September!
    • Deadline to apply: At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date

    Teach English in Italy

    pizza-in-italy

    Learn to love all things Italy on this unique immersion program, as you live with your Italian host family, teach English in the local schools, and explore Italy on the weekends!

    You can experience Italian culture by volunteer teaching at a local public school in the Piedmont region as you live with your new Italian host family. Your accommodation with the family, 2-3 delicious meals a day, and medical insurance will be provided as part of the program, so all you have to worry about is enjoying all that Italy has to offer. Check out what your day to day might be like through the eyes of Instagrams from our Italy teachers.

    The Basics:

    • Contract length: 3 months
    • Dates: September – December 2020
    • Deadline to apply: May 15, 2020

    Get TEFL Certified and work in Prague, Czech Republic

    Europe more your style? This is a 4-week TEFL certification course that allows teachers the opportunity to obtain a legal work permit and work in a bustling European city! The TEFL course in Prague is the perfect program for anyone looking to live and work in Europe legally and gain experience with different ages and English levels; from pre-schools to business English, Prague has a large and growing teaching market!

    The Basics:

    • Contract length: 4-week course and job assistance following graduation
    • Start dates: Monthly
    • Deadline to apply: At least 6 weeks prior to your desired program start date

    Business and Marketing Internship in Thailand

    What better way to strengthen your post-graduate resume than immersing yourself in the “Land of Smiles” while building valuable skills in a multicultural company! Work with cultural exchange programs or local animal rescue in this unique internship opportunity and gain experience in marketing, writing, program management, and social media. Space is limited and filled on a rolling basis so apply early! Read more about the 5 Things You Will Experience on Your Internship in Thailand.

    The Basics:

    • Internship length: Choose between 8 weeks or 12 weeks
    • Start dates: Monthly
    • Deadline to apply: At least 8 weeks before your desired start date.

    Teach English in a Homestay

    Want to spend 1-3 months getting to know a country in a truly authentic way? What better way than to live with a host family! You’ll tutor your family in English for 15 hours per week, while the other time is meant for you to create connections and explore. Will your new Italian host nonna teach you how to make fresh pasta? We can’t guarantee it, but it’s been a common perk in the past! We have programs in France, Italy, South Korea, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, China, and Russia.

    The Basics:

    • Contract length: 1, 2, or 3-month options
    • Start dates: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month
    • Deadline to apply: At least 8 weeks before your desired program start date

    Work Abroad in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, or Argentina.

    This is the quintessential “gap year” program, except you can choose to do it for a short period, or a full year. You will work in either Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, or Argentina with the option to move around the country, try different jobs and meet other backpackers! Jobs are usually in hostels, pubs, on farms, at amusement parks, and in factories. So, the focus of this program is less on career building, and more about experiencing another culture and funding your travels. See what kind of jobs our past traveler tried during her time in Australia!

    The Basics:

    • Contract length: 3 – 12 months
    • Start dates: Monthly
    • Deadline to apply: At least 8 weeks prior to your desired program start date

    Teach English in Vietnam

    Vietnam is a Southeast Asian teaching destination that offers placements in both public and private schools! July is the perfect time to arrive to get TESOL certified and begin working. We have paid teaching placements in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other locations around the country. Vietnam is the ideal destination to explore during time off!

    Enjoy high salaries, a low cost of living, and the chance to explore this beautiful country full of fascinating history and culture.

    • Contract length: 4, 6, 12 month contracts
    • Start Dates: Throughout the year
    • Deadline to apply: At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date

  • Your Options After Graduating High School 

    Your Options After Graduating High School 

    Whether you realize it or not, high school graduation if your first real taste of independence. You’ve probably spent most of your life in school with the same people from your hometown who are all on the same path. What happens next is totally up to you. 

    Spring is creeping up, so it’s time to plan what your next move will be NOW. The most apparent option is college. 

    College is great for those who know exactly what they want to do as a career and are ready to dive head-first into their major. But if you’re not totally confident about college decisions, then that’s probably a sign to hold off until you know more about yourself and what you want. Taking out student loans just because everyone expects you to attend a university right away seems like a bad reason to go into debt.  

    Another option is taking a gap year.

    Obviously, I don’t mean spending a year laying in bed watching Netflix. A gap year is time spent constructively towards personal growth and can help you succeed in college (and career) in the long run.  

    Gap years give you the interpersonal skills that aren’t taught in a classroom setting. These are things like interacting with people from different backgrounds, taking initiative, and respecting other cultures.  

    These skills lay the foundation for a successful college experience. Those who have taken a gap year after high school tends to have higher GPA’s in college, graduate on time, and are better prepared for employment.  

    Since the whole goal of a gap year is to have new experiences and gain independence, you’re not going to achieve the personal growth you need in your hometown. Traveling is a crucial aspect of the whole gap year idea, preferably in country with a culture that’s different than yours.

     

    “I plan on going to college, but I don’t’ want to start a year later than everyone else.” 

    Breaking away from what your peers are doing will make some people question your judgment.

    If you saw the movie, “Booksmart” that came out earlier this year, you might remember that the character Amy planned on going abroad for the summer after high school graduation. In the movie’s big climactic scene, she admits to her best friend that (spoiler alert) she’s deferred college and decided to go abroad for the whole year, not just the summer. Her best friend is furious, saying that this messes up their whole plan of graduating college at the same time.

    This very real fear of not being on the same page as our friends adds so much pressure to the decisions we make as teens. No one wants to feel like they’re falling behind. But unlike the education structures you’ve been used to, college looks different for everyone.

    Grade levels feel very separated in high school, but that’s not really a thing in college.  You’re more likely to have classes separated by major instead of by freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior year. 

    Remember that just because taking a gap year is unheard of at your high school do does not mean that it’s uncommon in general. While many people go straight from high school to undergrad, there is also a significant number of people who start college later in life. 

    Here are some ways you can travel during your gap year:

    Work Abroad 

    Making money while backpacking is the best of both worlds. Life experience while boosting your resume at the same time. Work abroad programs focus on travel, so these types of jobs give you the flexibility to move around. Popular fields are hospitality and food service, but there are also trade skill options as well. 

    It’s important to note that this program utilizes a Working Holiday visa, which is only available to those between the ages of 18-29. If you’re interested in working abroad, it’s better to do sooner rather than later. 

    Check out our work abroad programs in Argentina, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.

    Get an Internship 

    If you’re looking for specific career experience, try an internship abroad. We other a 12-week marketing internship in Thailand where you can earn academic credit and focus on different marketing initiaitves with other interns.

    Learn more about our marketing internship in Thailand. 

    Live in a Homestay 

    It’s like being an exchange student, without the school. Basically, you have can live with a host family for 1-3 months with the commitment to tutoring them in English for 15 hours a week. 

    Homestay options are available in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, France, Italy, Russia, and Spain. 

    Become an Exchange Student

    This your last chance to have that exchange student experience of living with a host family and attending a local school!

    You might be wondering, ‘why would I want to continue high school if I already graduated‘ but there are actually a number of reasons. First of all, it’s a major college application boost. You get to take more classes, become fluent in another language, and demonstrate your independence. You can even get college credit depending on the country you go to. If you study abroad in England, for example, their education system is structured differently.

    Continuing high school abroad also gives you access to way more resources if you’re interested in applying to college outside of the United States. Just something to think about.

    Here’s a list of all of the countries where you can study abroad. 

    Design Your Own

    If you can’t pick where you want to go and what you want to do, why not mix and match? Spend 5 months working in Ireland, a trimester studying in Argentina, and a month living with a family in China! How many people can say that they’ve lived on multiple continents? Plus, it will still cost less and college.

    The bottom line: Consider all of your options before committing to any life-altering decisions. And no matter what path you choose, congratulations on your high school graduation.

  • Why You Should Apply Early to Your Travel Program

    Why You Should Apply Early to Your Travel Program

    Congrats on making the decision to go abroad! You’ve picked your program and the start date that works best for you, but our website says the deadline to apply is in a couple of months, so there’s no rush.  You’ll just start your application around that time.

    Waiting to apply is a bad idea.

    The earlier you apply to go abroad, the easier your life will be. Trust us, we’ve seen the last minute scramble hundreds of times and it’s not ideal. Let’s break down exactly what we mean, shall we?

    Paperwork

    This may be the most important reason to apply early. There are several documents you’ll need to get, so the sooner you start the process the more time you’ll have to work on them. Some things, like obtaining a passport or visa, require a lengthy timeframe and rely on external factors.  There are some things you just can’t do at the last minute, and paperwork is one of them.

    Placement Preferences

    For some programs, signing up early means getting your host family or school placement earlier than others. The earlier you apply, the bigger the pool of available host families we have to match you with to make sure it’s the best fit possible. So if you really want to be placed in Torino, while teaching abroad in Italy, you better get going before someone snags your spot! You will also have more time to communicate and get to know the family before you arrive. (Please note, we cannot guarantee anything when it comes to placements).

    Fundraise & Budget

    If you plan on fundraising, you need time to do it. If you want to save up for this program, you need time to do it. Funding your travels is another one of those things that you can’t do last minute.

    All of our programs offer a “build your own” payment plan. We’ll provide the link to pay off your program fee balance and you can make as many payments as you want towards your program until the final due date which is usually 6 weeks before you leave for your program. If you can commit to paying off a certain amount each month, applying early makes it easier to save, budget, and afford that program!

    Discounts

    Speaking of budgeting and money, we offer discounts for those you apply early to some of our programs. For example, high school abroad applicants get $300 off a trimester duration and $500 off the semester/academic year if documents are submitted by a certain date. This seems like a no-brainer if you know you’re going to be applying anyway. Unless you hate saving money.

    Space is Limited

    Each program has a certain number of spots, and once those are taken,  we can’t make exceptions. For example, our July TESOL course in South Korea was so popular, it filled up way before the deadline. Fortunately, we were able to add another one in August, but if you were set on July you would have been out of luck.

    Plan for the Future

    It’s one thing to decide you want to go abroad, but that decision is just an idea until you have a confirmed plan of action. Think of how nice it will be to have an answer when people ask what you’re doing after graduation. “I’m going to be teaching in Thailand in June with Greenheart Travel” sounds way more impressive than, “I don’t have a job yet. I”m thinking about teaching English abroad.”

    Communication

    We get A LOT of phone calls near popular program start dates. We’ll prepare you ahead of time as much as possible, but travelers still tend to have some lingering questions before departure. While we try to give every single person as much attention as possible, those who start the application process late have less time to organize all of their program details. Do you know what’s nice? Having all your questions answered well in advance so that you don’t have to call at 9:00 pm on a Sunday to ask about where to exchange money at the airport the day before you leave.

    Set Yourself Up For Success

    Mentally and emotionally prepare for your time abroad – read blog posts, learn about the country, set goals. Basically, the more time to have to plan, the better prepared you will be. Greenheart Travel provides all of our travelers with their own copy of the Greenheart Travel Atlas. This interactive guide is full of activities to complete before you leave on your program like setting goals, reflecting on your motivations, and challenging stereotypes and assumptions about your upcoming host country. Having time to complete these thoughtfully will allow you to be sure you’re ready for the challenges ahead like culture shock.

    TL;DR

    Last minute applications are a lose-lose. Apply early!

  • 5 Alternatives to Studying Abroad if You Didn’t in College

    5 Alternatives to Studying Abroad if You Didn’t in College

    You often hear about how studying abroad in college changed someone’s life, or how it was their favorite experience during their four years. Sometimes it seems like everyone around you was able to study in another country, but in reality, only 10% of students in the United States go study abroad during their time in university. It can be cost prohibitive and difficult to find time in your class schedule to take a full semester away from required courses, and it may feel like you’ve missed out on a unique experience. However, the opportunity to live overseas does not end after graduation! There are a number of ways to have just as an immersive experience in a new country – if not more! – as a study abroad program. Whether you want to live with a local family, find a new town to call home, or brush up on your language skills, consider having your “abroad” experience outside the cost and time constraints of a university!

    Become a Digital Nomad

    Working remote gives people a new kind flexibility with where and when they work – but have you ever considered how flexible you can be? Becoming a digital nomad allows you to continue your remote job while moving to a new country! For most programs, you are provided a coworking space with other digital nomads, WiFi, and other office necessities. If you’ve ever wanted to take your laptop across the world with you, but weren’t sure where to start, consider a digital nomad program.

    Maddie Erikson being welcomed by her host family while teaching English in a homestay in Italy

    Live in a Homestay

    Is your desire to travel driven by your curiosity of local cultural and language? Living with local host family is a great way to call a new town your home and practice a new language! Our Teach in a Homestay program allows you to live in a different country while tutoring your host family in English for a few hours a day. These opportunities really allow you to make meaningful connections and share in local everyday life by getting to know your family through casual, conversational English lessons and practicing the local language.

    Get TEFL Certified Abroad

    If the “study” aspect of “study abroad” really appealed to you, there are still ways to learn new skills in a classroom setting while living abroad. Many TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification courses are offered abroad and may cover accommodation during the duration of the class. This certification is a requirement for most teaching positions abroad and is a great way to open the door to endless paid work abroad! Depending on the country you take the course, there may be positions available as soon as you complete your certification.

    Teach English Abroad

    Have you ever thought about living abroad for an extended amount of time? Or possibly making money while experiencing a new country? Teaching English abroad is a great way to accomplish both of these! There are countless positions around the world looking for English speakers to teach in local schools. Most of the jobs do not require a degree in education and are open to degree holders of any subject. That makes it easy for many to people to immerse themselves in a new culture while securing a full-time job!

    Work Abroad

    If you are looking for a more independent experience abroad and teaching doesn’t appeal to you, there are always seasonal jobs and internships available in different countries! These opportunities typically provide you the flexibility to travel and experience your new surroundings while making a sustainable salary. Many of the positions open are fun, entry-level such as working in local bars, hostels, or hotels where you’ll meet other travelers!

  • How to Maximize Your Budget While Traveling in Europe

    How to Maximize Your Budget While Traveling in Europe

    While in Europe, whether working or teaching in a homestay or school, you will find plenty of opportunities to backpack. Backpackers and travelers who come to Europe all have diverse backgrounds. They come from different countries, speak different languages, and have different personalities. However, there is one thing that almost all of them have in common. They’re on a tight budget. Knowing how much money you need to bring with you on your trip is one of the hardest parts of planning a great travel experience. Making your money last and spending it effectively once you are already in Europe is even harder.

    Before getting into the specifics of budgeting while you’re in Europe, there is one important thing to factor into your budget; incidentals. Depending on how long your trip will be, it’s best to factor in an extra $50-$100 dollars for unexpected expenditures. Examples of this could be having to take a cab from the airport because the public transportation employees are striking or having to pay a fee to the hostel for losing your key card. If your trip goes off without a hitch, then you have a little extra cash at the end to put towards your next adventure.

    Let’s start off with a few things that are worth spending a little extra money on.

    Hostels and Number of Beds in Your Room

    Hostels can be great places to meet people and enhance your overall experience in any city. They also can be a nightmare. A great resource to make sure you get the best hostel possible is www.hostelworld.com. I never had a hostel horror story because I never booked a hostel that had a rating below 9. Always book hostels with a 24-hour receptionist. It’s safer, and if you have travel delays you won’t be locked out when you show up at 1:30 am. While not as important, if it’s not too much more to book yourself in a room with 4 beds compared to 8 I would do it. The fewer people there are in your room, the better you will sleep.

    One Authentic Meal in Each City

    I’ll talk a little more about how to save on food later, but it’s important to have authentic meals as food culture is such a large part of a true European experience. Spend a little at an authentic Italian restaurant. Go somewhere upscale in Paris. These experiences will be some of your favorites when looking back on your trip. Ask around to see where the locals eat, but some tell-tale signs of tourist trap eateries are places with pictures of the food as well as menus with English if you’re in a non-English speaking country.

    Flights, Trains, and Buses That Depart at Normal Times

    Yes, I know that Ryanair flight to Prague is ridiculously cheap, but sometimes paying a little extra is worth not having to catch a flight that leaves at 5 am. There are a few reasons for this. First, some cities may not have public transit available or running frequently in the morning. Therefore, you will end up spending more money on a cab which could offset the money you saved by choosing the early flight. It’s also just better for your overall energy level. The less tired you are the more fun you will have, and more importantly reduce your chances of getting sick. It’s up to you to decide how much you’re willing to pay for a later ticket, but if it’s only about $20-$50 more I would recommend it.

    Cabs

    Unless necessary try to avoid cabs at all costs. They will notice you’re not a local, and often upcharge your fare. European public transportation systems are generally great and should get you everywhere you need to go for a fraction of the price. Also, walk! It’s a great way to find hidden gems to circle back to on the way to your destination.

    Breakfast and Lunch

    A lot of Europeans do not typically eat breakfast, so you might find yourself skipping it. If you are the type of person who absolutely needs to eat something in the morning, buy some breakfast bars to carry around with you easily. A good way to save on lunch is to find a grocery store and just get some bread, meats, and cheese to brown bag it. Most hostels will have a fridge you can store your groceries in. I had a lot of fun just making simple lunches and people watching while eating them in city parks.

    Buying Souvenirs

    Obviously, you will want to bring something back home with you, but it’s important to think about what you want to buy ahead of time. Impulse purchases are almost always regretted later. You will live without buying the homemade Irish tweed cap that costs 45 euros. It’s important to also consider not buying anything too big, such as beer mugs or framed pictures. Some good souvenir options that are small and won’t break the bank are shot glasses, magnets, or postcards.

    Hopefully, these tips help, but they definitely are not the only ways to save money. If you have any tips for saving money while traveling leave a comment! We would love to hear from you.

  • 3 Steps to Fundraising for Your Travel Adventure

    3 Steps to Fundraising for Your Travel Adventure

    So you want to embark on the travel experience of a lifetime, but don’t have a stockpile of cash lying around? No worries! We will give you tips and tools to mobilize your personal network and help make your overseas adventure a reality. 

    While daydreaming about your travel destination is a helpful motivator, to really achieve your travel goals requires a plan. Below is an outline of how to get started in your fundraising efforts. 

    Step 1: Setting Your Fundraising Goal and Plan

    The first step to starting your fundraising journey is setting a fundraising goal. This goal is determined by how much money you will need to fundraise in order to make your trip a reality. Before establishing your goal, you will need to begin by assessing the amount of funding you personally can contribute to your program. Once you know the cost of the program and your personal contribution, you can calculate your fundraising goal. Don’t forget to consider the price of a flight and any additional costs like food to make sure you are financially secure during our time abroad.

    ICost of Greenheart Travel Program + Additional Expenses )- Funding You Already Have = Fundraising Goal

    After you have established your fundraising goal it is time to create a timeline of when you will need your travel funds. Work backwards on a timeline to achieve your fundraising goals that meet your ideal departure date.

    Consider Supportive Communities in Your Network

    With your timeline and goal in mind, you can start to assess what communities you can reach out to for support. It is important to remember that fundraising takes time and you will likely need to reach out to various groups at different times to meet the full fundraising amount.

    A few questions you can use to discover what networks you belong to outside of friends and family are:

    • Do you attend a school that will allow you to fundraise for personal needs?
    • Are you part of a sports team or extracurricular group?
    • Are you part of a religious community?
    • Do your parents have friends or colleagues who are interested in supporting you?

    Write down the groups of people you can reach out and the contact information for individuals within those groups. Start thinking about the best time to host an event, or speak to these communities. 

    Step 2: Making the Most of Local Resources

    Now that you have outlined your fundraising goal, timeline, and supportive communities, it is time to start determining how you will raise the money needed for your travels. There are two main ways for you to have your networks support you in meeting your fundraising goal: direct solicitation and events.

    Asking your communities for financial support can seem daunting, but by using the tips below it can be both a great learning experience and an opportunity to share your story and possibly inspire future travelers to meet their personal goals as well. 

    First Approach: Straight Up Asking For Financial Support

    This fundraising approach is often called direct solicitation, and requires reaching out to people who are part of your community via email, letter, recorded video, phone call, or face-to-face interactions and asking them directly to make a donation. This approach might be more nerve-wracking than an event, and is best used for individuals that you feel especially connected to such as family members and friends.

    In your individual appeal letter or conversation you will need to including the following information:

    • A little bit about yourself and why you are reaching out to this person
    • What travel program you have chosen and why you think it is impactful on your future
    • Your fundraising goal (be specific! If you need $2,000 by August say it!)
    • How the funds will be used
    • A direct ask of them to contribute to your goal
    • How they can donate to you (cash, check, GoFundMe website)
    • A thank you to them for being part of your community and supporting you through your life journey

    You can use this sample letter to tailor your own direct solicitation.

    Second Approach: Hosting a Fundraising Event

    Having a fundraising event is a fun way to raise money for your Greenheart Travel program abroad. Generally, these events are informal, provide some service or good in exchange for a donation, and can involve many community members at the same time.

    A few ways to easily mobilize your community are through the following events:

    • Car Wash
    • Bake Sale
    • Yard Sale
    • Community fundraising at a restaurant
    • Create a community cookbook and sell it
    • Host a field day or game night and charge a fee for people to participate

    Consider thinking about what events your community would be most likely to get involved in. In addition, it is important to think about your overall goal when choosing which event to have.

    For instance, if you need to raise $4,000 but are having a bake sale with 50 items at $2.00 a piece, plus additional donations, you are likely to make only $300.00. It is also important to consider the costs of hosting these events. A yard sale would require your family and friends giving up items to be sold for your cause, a car wash requires time from people willing to help you wash the cars, and a bake sale requires money to buy the baking materials.

    An event doesn’t necessarily have to be in a physical location. If you have a large network spread out across the country, it might also be helpful to create an online fundraising campaign that you promote through word of mouth and social media.

    The following platforms make raising money via a social media campaign easy, but be aware of the fees they charge:

    The best approach to raising your funds will likely be a combination of direct solicitation, events and online outreach. Consider directly reaching out to those in your life who you know are willing to donate and have a close relationship with you, while using the events to engage the broader community in your network.

    Appreciate Various Forms of Support

    Keep in mind that there are many reasons people might not donate to your cause, and don’t take it personally or negatively. If someone isn’t able to support your fundraising efforts financially, perhaps they can help spread the word about your online campaign or event. 

    Sometimes, it is a matter of following up, especially with online fundraising. With so many emails and social media feeds that compete for our attention, a friendly reminder or check-in might be all that is needed to start seeing your fundraising efforts succeed. No matter what, always thank your community for their support of your journey, regardless of if they can provide money to finance it.

    Part 3: How to Thank Your Supporters

    It is very important that you thank everyone who gave money to provide you with the experience of a lifetime! In addition to saying “thank you” immediately to anyone who made a contribution to your program, it is a good idea to follow up with an additional thank you once you return from your travels as well.

    Here are some creative ways to show your community you appreciate their support:

    • Send a postcard or an e-card with a personalized message and photo from your travels
    • Make a video while on your program and include a thank you at the end of it to those who donated
    • Give a social media shout out to those who impacted your trip
    • Post a group picture of fundraising events and tag those who attended
    • Take a photo series while abroad with a “Thank You” sign and make a gratitude collage

    In an age where everything seems to be online, never underestimate the power of a hand-written thank you note. While photos, videos and travel montages are exciting, being able to say a personal and genuine “thanks” to show your appreciation is priceless.

    Get Organized in How You Will Say “Thanks” Before You Leave

    Plan ahead for your thank you ideas so you can be sure to get the footage or photos you need while abroad. However you choose to show gratitude, remember the impact that this experience had on you and the generous friends and family that used their time and resources to make it a reality.

    Alongside personal thank you notes and gratitude collages, it is also worth considering giving a presentation once you return. By sharing what you have learned about a culture, language and yourself, you can inspire and educate your community. You can also use this opportunity to say thank you to groups or local organizations that helped you fundraise or your travels.

    Showing gratitude for all the support you’ve had in reaching your goal is important, but don’t forget to give yourself a high-five as well. You are on your way to a life-changing travel adventure through your hard work and fundraising efforts!